How is thyroid disease diagnosed during pregnancy?
In pregnancy the values of thyroid hormone blood levels change significantly due to changes in pregnancy hormones (b-hCG and estradiol). The physiologic changes of pregnancy can mimic thyroid disease. Pregnancy may stimulate remission or exacerbation of thyroid disorders. History, physical exam, levels of TSH , T4 and T3 in blood, as well as thyroid scan and thyroid ultrasound can help establishing the diagnosis. 5.Is increase in thyroid gland size normal during pregnancy? Requirements for iodine increase during pregnancy due to fetal iodine use and increased clearance of iodine by kidneys. In 15 % of pregnant women this is associated with a noticeable increase in thyroid gland size, which returns to normal after delivery. Thyroid function tests are normal. Goiter is abnormal and needs further investigation. The World Health Organization recommendation is 200 micrograms/day of iodide for pregnant women. 6.What is hypothyroidism and how does it affect pregnancy? Hypothyroidism is a dise
